The Nissan Terrano II (R20) represents Nissan’s second-generation foray into the mid-size SUV market, produced from 2001 to 2004. While not officially sold in the United States, the Terrano II was a popular vehicle in Europe, South America, and other international markets. It was positioned as a robust, body-on-frame SUV designed for both on-road comfort and off-road capability, competing with vehicles like the Mitsubishi Pajero and Toyota RAV4. The R20 generation built upon the success of the original Terrano, offering improved refinement, safety features, and a wider range of engine options, including the 3.0 TDi 16V variant detailed here.
Nissan Terrano II (R20) 3.0 TDi 16V: An Overview
The 3.0 TDi 16V model of the Terrano II combined a powerful diesel engine with a comfortable interior and practical five-door body style. This configuration was particularly popular in regions where diesel fuel was readily available and where drivers valued torque for towing and navigating challenging terrain. The Terrano II offered a blend of utility and affordability, making it a compelling choice for families and individuals seeking a versatile SUV.
Engine & Performance
At the heart of the Terrano II 3.0 TDi 16V lies a 2.953-liter (180.2 cubic inch) inline-four cylinder diesel engine, designated the ZD30Ti. This engine produces 154 horsepower at 3600 rpm and a substantial 304 Nm (224.22 lb.-ft.) of torque at 1600 rpm. The engine utilizes a turbocharger with an intercooler to enhance power output and efficiency. Fuel is delivered via a Diesel Commonrail injection system, contributing to improved combustion and reduced emissions for its time. Power is delivered to all four wheels through a four-speed automatic transmission, providing ease of use and convenience. Performance figures include a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration time of 13.6 seconds and a maximum speed of 166 km/h (103.15 mph). The weight-to-power ratio is 12.7 kg/Hp, and the weight-to-torque ratio is 6.4 kg/Nm, indicating a good balance between power and vehicle weight.
Design & Features
The Nissan Terrano II R20 is a classic five-door SUV, characterized by its boxy, utilitarian design. This design prioritized interior space and practicality over sleek aesthetics. The vehicle offers seating for five passengers and boasts a generous cargo capacity, ranging from 115 liters (4.06 cubic feet) with the rear seats up to a substantial 1900 liters (67.1 cubic feet) with the rear seats folded down. The Terrano II features a longitudinal engine layout, contributing to its off-road capabilities. Safety features for the era included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and hydraulic power steering. The suspension system consists of a double wishbone setup at the front and coil springs at the rear, providing a comfortable ride and decent handling characteristics. The vehicle rides on 16-inch wheels with 235/70 R16 tires. The Terrano II’s robust construction and four-wheel-drive system made it a capable off-roader, suitable for tackling moderate to challenging terrain.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Nissan |
| Model | Terrano |
| Generation | Terrano II (R20) |
| Type | 3.0 TDi 16V (5 dr) (154 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2001 |
| End of production | 2004 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 12.7 l/100 km (18.5 US mpg, 22.2 UK mpg, 7.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 8.2 l/100 km (28.7 US mpg, 34.4 UK mpg, 12.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 9.8 l/100 km (24 US mpg, 28.8 UK mpg, 10.2 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 13.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 13.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 12.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 166 km/h (103.15 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12.7 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.4 kg/Nm |
| Power | 154 Hp @ 3600 rpm |
| Power per litre | 52.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 304 Nm @ 1600 rpm (224.22 lb.-ft. @ 1600 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | ZD30Ti |
| Engine displacement | 2953 cm3 (180.2 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 96 mm (3.78 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 102 mm (4.02 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 17.9:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.7 l (7.08 US qt | 5.9 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 10.6 l (11.2 US qt | 9.33 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1950 kg (4299.01 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2510 kg (5533.6 lbs.) |
| Max load | 560 kg (1234.59 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 115 l (4.06 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1900 l (67.1 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 80 l (21.13 US gal | 17.6 UK gal) |
| Length | 4697 mm (184.92 in.) |
| Width | 1755 mm (69.09 in.) |
| Height | 1850 mm (72.83 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2650 mm (104.33 in.) |
| Front track | 1455 mm (57.28 in.) |
| Rear track | 1430 mm (56.3 in.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears | 4 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 235/70 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |
The Nissan Terrano II R20 3.0 TDi 16V remains a popular choice among enthusiasts and those seeking a reliable and capable SUV, particularly in regions where it was originally sold. Its combination of diesel power, four-wheel drive, and practical design continues to appeal to drivers who value versatility and durability.
